Reclaim Programme
North Somerset
In summer 2024, Reclaim The Sea launched a transformative pilot programme in Weston-super-Mare, continuing our mission to support healing through access to water. This innovative programme was specifically tailored to women who were feeling isolated along with dealing with the struggles of forced migration.
Working closely with Refugees Welcome North Somerset, our pilot programme in Weston-super-Mare represented a carefully crafted approach to community building and personal empowerment. We intentionally invited women experiencing isolation, providing them with a trauma-informed experience that went far beyond traditional swimming lessons.
From the moment participants received their first personal swimsuit to the powerful group affirmation sessions, every aspect of the programme was designed to rebuild confidence and create meaningful connections.
Under the leadership of Rebecca Wetten, we continue to expand our vision for programmes in North Somerset with plans to expand sessions in future years to include programmes for women, men, and young people in North Somerset and Bristol.
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“I feel extraordinary... These people are not like my family. They are my family. They make me feel so welcome. I can't believe that me, a woman my size, can actually float in the water. I feel incredible... [it] makes all my worries go away”
Rido
Reclaim Programme Participant
Past programmeS
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Bristol and North Somerset - Summer 2024
In partnership with Refugees Welcome North Somerset, Reclaim the Sea launched a pilot programme in Weston-super-Mare to teach refugee and asylum-seeking women to swim. In this pilot, we focused on building fundamental swimming skills and water confidence for our group of beginners.
Ready to dive in?
Whether as a participant, volunteer, or supporter, you can be part of our movement to reclaim the sea.